Gas Prices Edge Near All-Time High in Michigan

A new report released by AAA Michigan this week reveals that Michigan has the second highest gas prices in the country.

The auto club is reporting that gasoline prices have jumped about 23 cents during the past week to a statewide average of about $4.23 per gallon. AAA said Monday the average is about 47 cents per gallon more than this time last year.

In Brighton, gas prices averaged roughly $4.24 a gallon as of Friday and many residents expressed their frustration with the "ridiculous" prices on the Brighton Patch Facebook page.

"Obviously, not too happy," David Majchrzak wrote. "Michigan is always one of the highest in the nation consistently, along with some east coast and west coast states. Sillyness."

"Ouch!" Gary Dziekan wrote. "I heard its going to $5.01 this summer too."

The Detroit Free Press reports that prices increased in Michigan following lingering issues at several Midwest refineries that supply gasoline to the state. In addition, speculation among Midwest refiners likely is causing panic, which means refiners are buying gasoline at a premium to meet contract orders from wholesalers.

AAA Michigan analysts say it is difficult to predict how long the higher prices will last, but warned they could continue to climb before coming down.